| Title: |
Couples |
 |
| Author: |
John Gettings |
| Published by: |
University Press of New England, 1996 |
| ISBN: |
0-87451-791-5 [hardcover, 125 pages] |
During New York City's stonewall 25 and
Gay Pride celebration in 1994, photographer John Gettings shot black-and-white
portraits of gay and lesbian couples, and later recorded their comments
about their lives and their love for each other. The result is this stunning
collection, a compendium of words and images that provides the clearest
window yet into the thoughts, emotions, and devotion of same-sex couples
and their struggles and joys enroute to each other.
These are not celebrities, but ordinary citizens from
all walks of life - accountants, teachers, lawyers, bartenders, chauffeurs,
corporate executives - and many regions and backgrounds. They represent
the full spectrum of contemporary gay culture, and their revelations about
coming out, family reactions to their partnerships, limitations on their
rights, and forging a life together are infallibly colored with caring
and commitment. "We are more than lovers," Leland says of his
partner of 13 years, "we are best friends." Maureen says, "Helen
has been the greatest person and the best influence in my life." At
a time when domestic partnerships and same-sex marriages are increasingly
visible on judicial, legislative, and political agendas, Couples
addresses a fundamental issue of human connections with honesty, humor,
perceptiveness, and great passion.
